Some antibiotics can make your skin more sensitive to light and laser energy, a condition known as photosensitivity. When the skin is photosensitive, the risk of burns, blistering and pigmentation changes increases. Common antibiotics that may affect laser hair removal include: • Doxycycline • Lymecycline • Tetracycline • Minocycline • Ciprofloxacin • Co-trimoxazole If you are taking one of these medications, laser hair removal treatment is usually postponed until the course of antibiotics has finished and the medication has cleared from your system. Always inform us about any antibiotics you are taking before your appointment.

Laser hair removal should not be performed during treatment with isotretinoin (Roaccutane or Accutane). This medication affects how the skin heals and significantly increases the risk of: • Scarring • Skin irritation • Delayed healing • Pigmentation changes Its recommend waiting at least 6 months after completing a course of isotretinoin before starting laser hair removal treatment.

Blood-thinning medication does not usually prevent laser hair removal, but it may increase the likelihood of minor bruising or skin sensitivity after treatment. Examples include: • Warfarin • Apixaban (Eliquis) • Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) • Dabigatran • Clopidogrel • Aspirin (high dose) We will review your medical history and adjust treatment settings if necessary to ensure safety.

Photosensitising medications make the skin more reactive to light and laser energy. This can increase the risk of burns or pigmentation changes. Common photosensitising medications include: Antibiotics • Doxycycline • Lymecycline • Tetracycline • Minocycline Heart medications • Amiodarone Diuretics • Hydrochlorothiazide • Furosemide Anti-inflammatory medications • Naproxen • Piroxicam Herbal supplements • St John’s Wort If you are taking any medication that increases photosensitivity, its recommended that you delay treatment until it is safe to proceed.

Some anti-inflammatory medications can increase the skin’s sensitivity to light and heat. Examples include: • Naproxen • Piroxicam Although these medications do not always prevent treatment, an assessment of if your skin is suitable for laser treatment will be carried out at your consultation.

Yes, some herbal supplements can cause photosensitivity and make your skin react more strongly to laser treatment. One of the most common examples is: • St John’s Wort This supplement can increase the risk of laser burns and pigmentation changes, so it is important to disclose any supplements you take before treatment.

Topical retinoids can make the skin thinner and more sensitive, which may increase irritation during laser treatment. Common retinoid products include: • Tretinoin (Retin-A) • Adapalene • Tazarotene You should avoid using retinoid products on the treatment area for 5–7 days before your laser hair removal appointment.

Long-term steroid use can affect the skin’s thickness and healing ability. Examples include: • Prednisolone • Hydrocortisone • Betamethasone • Clobetasol Laser hair removal may still be possible, but we may need adjust the treatment plan depending on the medication and treatment area.

Immunosuppressant medications affect the body’s ability to heal and fight infection. Because laser hair removal works by delivering heat to the hair follicle, slower healing may increase the risk of skin reactions. Examples include: • Methotrexate • Ciclosporin • Azathioprine • Tacrolimus We advise you seek medical clearance from your GP before treatment starts.

If you start any new medication during your treatment course, you should inform 24 hours before your next session. Some medications may require treatment to be postponed temporarily until it is safe to continue.